Jimmy Kimmel Mourns Cleto Escobedo III’s Death

Jimmy Kimmel Mourns loss of Longtime Bandleader Cleto escobedo, III

A deeply personal loss has struck the late-night television world as Cleto Escobedo, III, the bandleader of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” for over two decades, has died. The news was announced by host Jimmy kimmel on Tuesday,November 11,in a heartfelt social media post.

Did you know? – Cleto Escobedo,III,wasn’t just the bandleader; he was a professional touring musician before joining “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” His musical talent predated his television fame.

A Friendship Spanning Decades

Kimmel described Escobedo as a “great friend, father, son, musician and man,” urging his followers to keep Escobedo’s family in their thoughts during this arduous time.The pair’s connection ran incredibly deep, originating in childhood. “Cleto and I have been inseparable since I was nine years old,” Kimmel wrote, adding that the chance to work together daily was a dream come true for both of them.

The proclamation follows a recent postponement of a “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” show taping due to a “personal matter,” fueling speculation about the host’s well-being.

from Las vegas Roots to National Stage

Escobedo, a native of Las Vegas, led “Cleto and the Cletones” on Kimmel’s late-night program for more than 20 years, becoming a familiar and beloved presence to viewers. Their shared history dates back to 1977, when Kimmel’s family relocated from New York to Las Vegas and moved in across the street from Escobedo.

Kimmel publicly celebrated his friend’s 50th birthday in 2016 with a segment dedicated to Escobedo, playfully recounting their decades-long friendship. He characterized their bond as one built on “the kind of torture you can onyl an older brother can inflict on you without being arrested.”

Pro tip: – Late-night show bandleaders frequently enough have extensive musical backgrounds. They’re responsible for not only the show’s music but also adapting to various guest performances.

A History of Pranks and Musical Talent

The segment featured humorous anecdotes of their youth, including instances where Escobedo deliberately steered Kimmel into trash cans while Kimmel rode in the sidecar of his bicycle. Kimmel also recalled a childhood incident where Escobedo sabotaged a go-kart kimmel built from wood. “Cleto snuck into my garage and glued the steering column left or right,” Kimmel recounted. “I went right into traffic.”

The pair’s shared passion for music was also highlighted, with Kimmel sharing a photograph of them playing together as children – Kimmel on the clarinet and Escobedo on the saxophone.

A Natural Fit for “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”

Kimmel revealed to WABC that he knew he wanted Escobedo to lead the house band for “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” when the show premiered in 2003. He described Escobedo as a “child prodigy” who had become a professional touring musician. To secure his friend’s involvement,Kimmel offered escobedo a substantial salary increase from his existing touring work.

Reader question: – How crucial do you think a long-term working relationship like Kimmel and Escobedo’s is to the success of a late-night show?

Why did Cleto Escobedo, III die? The cause of death has not been publicly disclosed. Kimmel’s announcement focused on celebrating Escobedo’s life and legacy, rather than detailing the circumstances surrounding his passing.

Who was Cleto Escobedo, III? He was the bandleader of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” for over 20 years and a lifelong friend of Jimmy Kimmel, dating back to their childhood in Las Vegas. He led the band “Cleto and the Cletones.”

What was his impact? Escobedo was a beloved figure on